Getting a good night’s sleep can be difficult when you are pregnant; from constant toilet trips and leg cramps, to pregnancy insomnia and overheating, the advice to sleep now before the baby arrives might not be the most well-received!
However, there are a number of pregnancy pillows on the market, that might help you get a more comfortable night’s rest, both improving your sleep quality and quantity.

Here’s a little more information on the importance of a pregnancy pillow and how it can help you during your pregnancy…

What is a pregnancy pillow?

These are large and supportive sleeping aids, like normal pillows, except they are designed to support other parts of the body, such as pregnancy bumps, legs and backs. Whilst some are designed to be used in a specific way, others are adaptable and can be used in multiple ways and then after the baby is born, as a breastfeeding pillow support.

These pillows also encourage pregnant women to lie on their side, preferably their left side because this promotes blood circulation and helps to reduce leg swelling and achy joints. It also means that your uterus will not rest on your liver, which is located on the right side of your abdomen.

Do I need a special pregnancy pillow?

Some people find that putting an ordinary pillow between their legs and/or supporting their bump whilst lying on their side is enough support to get a good night’s shut-eye but if you can’t get comfortable and are constantly shifting to try and find a position that works for you, then a pregnancy pillow is definitely worth a try.

What types of pregnancy pillows are there?

There are a number of different pregnancy pillows on the market. These include:

Full body pillows

These pregnancy pillows will run the whole length of your body and will be ‘I’ shaped and gently curved, so you can put one end between your knees and it can support your bump and rest you head on it. Others are ‘U’ shaped, designed to support your body whilst you straddle one side, with your head resting on the curve. These will take up more room in the bed and will typically be more expensive than some choices.

C, J and 6 shaped pillows

There are also ‘6’ shaped pillows designed to support your bump, hips and lower back, and ‘C’ shaped pillows, will also support your head and neck. ‘J’ shaped pillows to support your bump, back and knees.

Wedge pillows

These are smaller and less expensive than other pregnancy pillows and designed to support one specific area; typically, your bump or back. They are smaller and can also be used to prop up your regular pillow if you suffer from heartburn. They can also be used to support your back once your baby has arrived during feeding times.

Things to look out for

Like normal pillows, pregnancy pillows are made from different materials, but it is best to look for a strong and non-allergenic material.

Even if you like a softer pillow for your head, always choose a firmer pregnancy pillow because it will keep its shape for longer.

Choose a pregnancy pillow with a machine-washable, removable cover, so it is easy to clean.

If you’re not sure what pillow might work for you, see if any of your friends have one so you can test it out before you commit to buying one.

If you’re tall and want to buy a full body pillow, check the length of the pillow is long enough to support your whole body.

If your body aches when you wake up, pay attention to where the ache is and try to give that body part extra support with your pillow next time you go to bed.

The information on this website is for general information and it is not intended as, nor should it be considered as a substitute for seeing your own GP, midwife or healthcare professional. You are advised to seek professional medical advice if you have any concerns or suspect you have a medical problem.